By Wayne McMahen | State Representative, District 10
As we begin a new legislative year, I want to share with the citizens of District 10 and North Louisiana the priorities I will continue to focus on at the Capitol—priorities grounded in practical needs, fiscal responsibility, and long-term opportunity for our communities.
First, infrastructure remains foundational. Roads, bridges, water systems, and sewer infrastructure are not optional investments—they are necessities for safety, economic growth, and quality of life. In rural Louisiana, aging water and sewer systems threaten public health and limit development. I will continue working to secure funding, streamline project delivery, and ensure sustainability so that systems we repair today will serve communities for decades, not just a few years. Strong infrastructure is the backbone that allows everything else—business, healthcare, and education—to function.
Second, Louisiana must continue tax reform to remain competitive with our southern neighbors. Over the past several years, meaningful progress has been made in simplifying and modernizing our tax structure. But we cannot stop halfway. Families and businesses compare states, and investment dollars move quickly. A competitive tax environment attracts employers, grows our tax base, and allows us to fund essential services without overburdening working families. Responsible tax policy is not about giveaways—it’s about growth.
Third, continuing insurance reform is critical for Louisiana families and businesses. High auto and property insurance costs strain household budgets and discourage investment. While progress has been made, more work remains to restore balance, reduce litigation-driven costs, and bring stability back to our insurance market. Reform must protect consumers while ensuring insurers can responsibly operate in Louisiana. Lower premiums mean more money staying in family budgets and more confidence for businesses looking to invest in our state.
Fourth, addressing rural healthcare is one of the most urgent challenges facing Louisiana. Access to care is shrinking in rural areas as providers retire, hospitals struggle financially, and distances to care increase. We must focus on practical solutions—supporting rural hospitals, strengthening primary care, expanding access points, and ensuring healthcare professionals can afford to practice in rural communities. A healthy Louisiana starts with access to care close to home.
Fifth, supporting local law enforcement and education initiatives is essential to strong communities. Our sheriffs, deputies, police officers, and first responders put themselves in harm’s way every day to keep our families safe. They deserve clear laws, proper training, competitive pay, and the resources necessary to do their jobs effectively. At the same time, education remains one of the best long-term investments we can make—supporting teachers, strengthening classrooms, and expanding career and technical education.
Finally, job creation and workforce development are critical for the future of North Louisiana. We must continue attracting employers while preparing our workforce for a changing economy. Our community college system and four-year institutions play a vital role in ensuring students see real opportunities to stay, work, and raise families right here at home.
These priorities—strong infrastructure, competitive taxes, insurance reform, accessible healthcare, public safety, education, and workforce development—form a roadmap for sustainable growth in District 10 and across North Louisiana. I remain committed to working with local leaders and citizens to move our region forward.
It is an honor to serve you.